Community Engagement through Public Libraries in Nepal: Outreach Initiatives in Gandaki Province
Loading...
Date
2025-06-26
Authors
Min Kumari Dallakoti
Bhandari , Anita
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Peradeniya
Abstract
Modern libraries extend beyond traditional four-wall services, actively engaging with communities to foster
socio-economic and cultural development through diverse initiatives. The current study aims to analyze the
community engagement of selected public libraries in Gandaki Province Nepal and their impact on literacy,
digital skills, and community development. This study employed mixed method approach, including
qualitative data collected through in-depth interviews of key persons of the concerned libraries and
quantitative data obtained from the publication and social media. Data sources included interviews with key
people, literature (books, journal articles, and theses), policy documents (government reports, regulations),
national and international databases, and online resources (regulatory websites, news, and professional blogs).
Out of 48 actively running public and community libraries, four libraries namely, Pokhara Public Library,
Deepshikha Community Library, Vidhya Mandir Library, and Moti Community Library were purposively
selected based on some criteria, such as, international collaboration and funding, historical background and
performance, community engagement and sources of funding. This study found that these four libraries
contributed to community literacy and education with distinct focuses. Vidhya Mandir Library preserved
culture, Pokhara Public Library emphasized digital literacy and job support, Deepshikha Community Library
promoted IT skills and women’s empowerment, and Moti Community Library specialized in vocational
training and healthcare. They supported underprivileged students, provide digital training, and fostered
leadership through women’s programs. Further these libraries promoted health, social inclusion, and outreach
initiatives such as book donations and environmental campaigns. They also aided career development through
CV writing, counseling, and training. It is concluded that public libraries significantly contribute to society
through education and literacy by supporting underprivileged students, digital training, women’s
empowerment, job skills, leadership programs, health promotion, book donations, and environmental
campaigns. The activities performed by public libraries need to be continued as these activities have a positive
impact on society. It is recommended that public libraries address their ongoing financial constraints by
securing sustainable and permanent sources of funding, as reliance on international development
organizations may not provide long-term financial stability. They can raise funds through collaborating with
libraries and carrying out income-generating activities.
Description
Keywords
Digital empowerment , Literacy promotion , Modern library , Public library , Skill development
Citation
International Conference on Library & Information Science (ICLIS ) – 2025 P.44